Pop & Lock Standard Tailgate Lock (Model PL5500)

Hello, this past month I replaced my old tailgate lock with a new PL5500 from Amazon.

$80 POP & Lock – Manual Tailgate Lock for Toyota Tacoma, Fits 2005 to 2015 Models, Anti Theft, Truck Tailgate Lock Replacement, Easy to Install, Made in The USA (Black, PL5500, Standard Lock)

https://www.amazon.ca/Pop-Lock-Toyota-Tacoma-2005-2015/dp/B00HFW5V46 I just wanted to make this thread to provide some insight that I didn't find from pre-existing threads. The product is very straightforward since you buy the entire assembly and it should be as simple as swapping them out. There's videos from the manufacturer for removing the tailgate cover with a T35 and then the actual handle is held on by 10 mm bolts.

Some concerns:

• Pop & Lock products are largely made of plastic and I've read in other forums about the handles breaking within a few months to a couple of years. With this in mind I would avoid the electric or key programmable handles for more money because I assume they don't address the small plastic pieces that can't be replaced once broken.
• the 'pieces' I'm referring to include the piece that rotates when you turn the key to lock the handle and the plastic housing where the 10 mm bolts thread into. The first piece means you have to be gentle when opening and locking the handle. The second piece isn't critical for failure of the handle but it lead to a very tough time trying to remove the entire assembly so I had to break it off.
• there's a bracket necessary for the backup camera that wasn't clear until I tried installing the handle. Make sure to order that with the product otherwise your camera won't fit.
• don't forget to reuse the OEM gasket otherwise you gotta make your own gasket

Good things

• I got the handle in black and it looks really clean on the tailgate
• works as advertised, but with limited durability

I hope someone researching tailgate handles learns something from this thread because I wish I knew these things before buying. I would buy another Pop & Lock product but that's mostly due to their being super limited options when it comes to Tacomas.

 

Thank you for the review and write up . I had heard that the

$80 PL5500 , Standard Lock

PL5500 had Been reinforced due to the previous version problems they had with breakage is that your findings ? I am in the market for one and am on the fence due to all of the negative reviews I have read of them breaking.

 

Anyone know a possible source for the gaskets? Looks like the PO didn't swap them in when he did this.

ETA: Trying a $20 eBay one for just the gaskets, will see.